How to Fix: Microsoft Word: Digital Signature in document has "recoverable signature" error
Understanding the 'recoverable signature' error in Microsoft Word and how to resolve it.
📋 Table of Contents
The 'recoverable signature' error in Microsoft Word for Microsoft 365 MSO (Version 2110) occurs when the digital signature verification process fails, resulting in an untrusted certificate being displayed. This issue affects users who have self-signed certificates and are trying to add a digital signature to their documents.
This error can be frustrating, especially when dealing with time-sensitive documents or business-critical signatures. However, by following these troubleshooting steps, you can resolve the issue and ensure that your digital signatures are verified correctly.
🛑 Root Causes of the Error
- The primary reason for this error is that Microsoft Word requires online verification of the certificate chain through a Certificate Revocation List (CRL) or Online Certificate Status Protocol (OCSP) check. However, when using self-signed certificates, this process may fail due to the lack of an online CRL or OCSP responder.
- Another possible reason for this error is that Microsoft Word has difficulty verifying the certificate chain when it contains a root CA that is not trusted by the system. In your case, you have confirmed that both your self-signed certificates are valid and installed as trusted root certification authorities.
🛠️ Step-by-Step Verified Fixes
Update Trusted Certificate Store
- Step 1: Copy your certificate from the Personal store to the Trusted People store in the Microsoft Management Console (MMC). This will update Word's trusted certificate store and allow it to verify your digital signature correctly.
- Step 2: Open the MMC, navigate to the Personal store, select your certificate, and click 'Copy'. Then, open the Trusted People store and paste the copied certificate. Click 'OK' to save the changes.
Configure OCSP Responder
- Step 1: Obtain an OCSP responder URL for your self-signed certificate chain. This can be done by using a tool like OpenSSL or Microsoft's own OCSP responder generator.
- Step 2: Install the OCSP responder on your system and configure it to respond to requests from Microsoft Word. You may need to modify your system's security settings to allow the OCSP responder to communicate with Word.
🎯 Final Words
By updating the trusted certificate store or configuring an OCSP responder, you can resolve the 'recoverable signature' error in Microsoft Word and ensure that your digital signatures are verified correctly. Remember to always follow best practices for self-signed certificates and consider using alternative solutions like third-party certificate authorities or online CRL/OCSP services.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
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